Talk educates locals on life under hospice care
FOURWAYS – Hospice care hosted a talk at Soul Cafe in Broadacres to educate people on hospice care.
CEO of HospiceWits Jacqui Kaye presented a talk at Soul Café in Broadacres in an effort to debunk the many myths and misconceptions surrounding hospice care.
Kaye explained, “Hospice is most commonly associated by the public with death but we like to think of it as being part of life and helping the living as much as helping the terminally ill. Our vision is to care for patients and their families in the event of a life-impacting illness so that everyone is supported through the journey.”
Hospice care is often introduced once traditional medical interventions have been exhausted. “It would be far more beneficial to the patient as well as to the family and loved ones if a hospice’s holistic approach to care were to be introduced as soon as a life-threatening illness diagnosis is received. We work in conjunction with the patient’s doctors and specialists, offering holistic care and focusing on all the patient’s needs.
“In some cases, we may not be needed immediately or even for years. By being included in a holistic treatment programme, we are there as and when needed and can provide encouragement and support to everyone involved.”
HospiceWits offers a range of services such as in-patient care, home-based care, psychosocial services as well as medical equipment loans and hire. It is the hospice’s policy that no terminally ill patient shall be turned away, regardless of their financial means. “This means that we do depend on the generosity of sponsors to continue providing this valuable care to the broader community.”
Lianne Barlon, co-owner of Soul Café located in Broadacres Garden Centre said, “We share the view that the discussions regarding end of life wishes and choices should be started before a patient becomes too weak and frail to engage with their family meaningfully. By having these courageous conversations earlier, families can make peace with the final wishes and choices made and can focus their time on the patient and their needs.”
Kaye concluded that they host a variety of sponsorship and fundraising events throughout the year for those interested in giving back.
Details: HospiceWits 011 483 9100.
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